AWE

About AWE

AWE is home to a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. For over 75 years, we’ve maintained the nation’s independent nuclear deterrent — protecting national security, supporting our NATO allies, and safeguarding our way of life.

Today, we are delivering Astraea, the next generation warhead, while pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. Our work reaches far beyond deterrence — from counter-terrorism and global nuclear test monitoring to building and nurturing a world-class community of nuclear science experts. Every project we deliver has one aim: protecting lives and strengthening national security.

Why work with us?

At AWE, you’ll find more than just a job. You’ll find purpose, challenge, and a community like no other. Recognised as one of the UK’s top 25 big companies to work for, we invest in our people through exceptional benefits and development opportunities, including:

• • 270 hours of annual leave plus every other Friday off
  • Funding for professional memberships, access to mentors, and extensive training
  • Generous pension contributions (9–13% employer contribution)
  • Life assurance, employee assistance, and occupational health services
  • Wellbeing initiatives, discounts, and paid time off for volunteering or public service

Opportunities:

We offer pathways for every stage of your career:

• • Apprenticeships (Levels 3–6) in engineering, project management, and more, with one-to-one mentoring and structured learning. Learn more about apprenticeship opportunities with Connectr or match your skills to a role with the Match Me Quiz.
  • Undergraduate Placements in disciplines such as radiochemistry, data science, environmental science, and cyber security — with the potential to secure a Graduate role when you graduate.
  • Defence Scholarship Scheme, combining summer placements giving exposure to AWE and getting insight into the business, with the potential to secure a Graduate role after you graduate.
  • Evolve Graduate Programme across engineering, science, safety, HR, project management, and corporate functions, with rotational placements, leadership training, and networking opportunities.

Many of our programmes run on a rolling recruitment basis, meaning we will close applications as soon as we have enough, so applying early increases your chances of securing a place.

Who can apply?

Applicants must be British Citizens and able to obtain the necessary security clearance. We’ll also consider whether you have lived outside the UK in the past 10 years as part of the process.

If you want to work in world-class facilities, learn from leading experts, and contribute to projects of national importance, this is your chance to be part of something truly unique.

Be extraordinary. Be part of AWE.